The Ultimate RV Bucket List Adventures

Have you ever seen *The Bucket List*? It’s a heartwarming 2007 film about two older men who, after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, decide to tackle a list of things they want to do before they “kick the bucket.” While the movie is a mix of laughter and tears, it reminds us all that life is short and it’s never too late to chase your dreams!

Now, we’re not saying you need a life-changing event to start checking things off your bucket list. Whether you’re retired, a weekend adventurer, or simply someone with a love for travel, an RV is the perfect way to bring those bucket list items to life. There’s just something special about seeing the country from the comfort of your home on wheels. So, let’s dive into some must-do RV bucket list experiences that will have you itching to hit the open road.

Camp at the Most Beautiful Places in America

Topping our list are America’s national parks, and for good reason. These breathtaking landscapes are the crown jewels of our country, and each one offers a unique, awe-inspiring experience. From towering mountains to serene forests, there’s a park for everyone. We love planning our RV trips around national parks, and the goal? Visit them all! With 63 national parks and 129 national monuments scattered across the U.S., there’s always a new adventure waiting.

Here are just a few bucket list-worthy national park experiences:

– Watch the sunrise at the Grand Canyon – No words can capture the beauty of those first rays of light spilling over the rim.

– Drive through the massive Redwoods in California – These giants will make you feel like you’ve entered another world.

– Watch Old Faithful erupt at Yellowstone – You won’t want to miss this natural wonder!

– Hike a glacier in Glacier National Park – It’s every bit as cool as it sounds (pun intended).

RVing is hands down the best way to explore these parks. Many of them offer campsites right inside the park, or you can find great RV parks just outside the gates, making it easy to wake up surrounded by nature.

Hit the Iconic Scenic Roads

While the destinations are incredible, let’s not forget that RVing is all about the journey too! The U.S. is home to some of the most iconic and scenic drives in the world, and no RV bucket list would be complete without cruising a few of them.

– Route 66: This one’s a classic—spanning 2,000 miles and packed with nostalgia. There’s even a song about it: “Get your kicks on Route 66!” This legendary highway takes you through quirky small towns, roadside diners, and stunning desert landscapes.

– Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): If you love dramatic ocean views, this coastal road from Southern California to Northern California is a must. With beaches, cliffs, and charming seaside towns along the way, you’ll want to stop often to soak it all in.

– Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park: This is hands down one of our favorites! The views are jaw-dropping, with towering peaks and deep valleys. You’ll find yourself pulling over every few minutes to snap photos.

– Million Dollar Highway (US 550 in Colorado): The stretch between Ouray and Silverton offers stunning mountain views, especially in the fall. Just be aware that some of these roads are a bit tight for large RVs!

Travel to All 50 States (Almost!)

Okay, we know getting to Hawaii in an RV isn’t going to happen, but why not make it a goal to RV through the other 49 states? Whether you tackle them all in one epic road trip or break it up into smaller adventures, it’s totally doable!

Here are a few regional road trips to help you get started:

– Pacific Northwest: Explore the waterfalls and scenic drives of the Columbia River Gorge, and don’t miss out on the beauty of Multnomah Falls in Oregon.

– East Coast National Parks: Hit up Everglades National Park in Florida or take in the Smoky Mountains on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. These parks offer tons of adventure, from hiking to RV-friendly campgrounds.

– Southwest National Parks: The Southwest is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks, like Mesa Verde, Arches, and of course, the Grand Canyon. These are all bucket list musts!

– Northeast: From Maine’s rugged coastline to the waterfalls of New York’s Robert H. Treman State Park, this region is perfect for scenic RV trips through rich history and nature.

– Midwest: You might not think of the Midwest first when it comes to RVing, but trust us, there are hidden gems like Robidoux RV Park in Nebraska, nestled in the shadow of Scotts Bluff National Monument.

– Alaska: If you’re feeling really adventurous, Alaska is calling! RVing through the rugged wilderness of Denali National Park is an experience like no other.

Tips for Planning Your Epic RV Adventures

Planning an RV trip, especially one that involves multiple bucket list stops, takes a little bit of prep. Here are a few tips to make it all run smoothly:

– Plan Ahead: RV spots at national parks fill up fast, so book your campground in advance. And don’t forget to pack the essentials!

– Use the 3-3-3 Rule: No more than 300 miles a day, stop every 3 hours, and arrive by 3 PM to keep the journey enjoyable.

– Get a National Park Pass: If you’re planning to hit up multiple parks, it’s worth investing in a pass to save on entry fees.

What Are You Waiting For?

If you’ve been dreaming about that ultimate road trip, there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or planning an extended adventure, the open road is calling. Start checking off your bucket list one state at a time and make unforgettable memories along the way.

Happy travels, and be sure to share your bucket list experiences with us in the comments! We’d love to hear about the places you’ve been and the ones you’re planning to see next.